Room - Film Review

Freelance writer and photographer with an interest in science communication. Always looking for new experiences and discoveries! Find out more at www.lagom.com.au

Published January 16th 2016

Unsettling, powerful and comforting all at once

The movie Room tells the story of a young mother (Ma), and her subsequent son (Jack), held in a garden shed for years by their captor (Old Nick). Ma is in the unenviable situation of sympathising with Old Nick's problems and keeping him happy, all in the name of preserving the trickle of supplies he provides and protecting her son.

Room is the name given by Jack to his home, the entire world as far as he believes. However, Ma previously had a life beyond these walls and the small skylight becomes a torturing reminder of the outside world, freedom, and her former life as a daughter. It is easy to become emotionally invested in these characters, so Ma's bold and risky escape plan makes gripping viewing.

Liberation from their captor soon brings other kinds of entrapment. First, within the physical walls of a suburban home to avoid the press. Before long Ma becomes entangled in the complications and relationships of life outside, as well as dealing with her mental scars. Jack must also learn to live in the completely foreign 'real' world. In some ways this film speaks many metaphors in life.

Room Movie Theatrical Poster

It would be easy to assume this is a tale of despair, but what emerges is something quite different. The frank life observations and innocence of a five year old boy is portrayed brilliantly, lifting this movie and providing laugh out loud moments where you wouldn't expect. The sacrifices made by Ma, and the protection she offers, are a powerful representation of all-consuming love from a mother.

The movie was adapted for screen from the best-selling novel by Irish-Canadian novelist Emma Donoghue. It is not a blockbuster in the superficial sense, it has grit and depth, yet it has been nominated for four Academy Awards and actress Brie Larson (Ma) won a Golden Globe for her performance.

Room is unsettling, powerful and comforting all at once.

Room (M) is showing at Luna Leederville and Luna on SX Cinemas from January 28th 2016 with Luna Outdoor advance screenings also available. You can view the official trailer here.